Former Azkals skipper Rudy del Rosario passes away

Kaya FC founder Rudy del Rosario. KAYA FC PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Rudy del Rosario, former skipper of the Philippine men’s national football team, passed away on Friday. He was 51.

A member of the fourth place finishers in the 16th Southeast Asian Games, Del Rosario went on to wear the armband from 1994 to 1997.

Del Rosario also transitioned to futsal wherein he represented the Philippines in the AFF Futsal Championship in 2001.

PFF President Mariano “Nonong” Araneta, Jr. expressed his condolences to Del Rosario’s family, describing his former national teammate as one of the country’s footballing legends.

“Philippine football lost one of its legends in Rudy Del Rosario who not only made an impact with his play on the pitch but with his tremendous passion for the game that reflected in his work even after his playing career,” said Araneta.

“Rudy was a skillful and creative player who would always provide a positive energy to the teams he played for. He played with tenacity and grit, using football – and music – to express himself. He loved the game so much I knew he would always be involved in the sport after his playing career.”

We are deeply saddened by the news of Rudy Del Rosario's passing. Not only was he one of the founders & pillars of Kaya FC, he was a staunch advocate for football across the nation. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, & those fortunate to call him a teammate or coach. pic.twitter.com/dyN9FEjEZz

— Kaya Futbol Club (@KayaFC) November 20, 2020

Del Rosario was one of the founding members of Kaya Futbol Club in 1996 and helped young football talents in various communities such as the Homeless World Cup team.

“Rudy used football as a platform to help uplift the lives of many young players with his different coaching roles especially with the Homeless World Cup team. He was also one of the founders of Kaya Futbol Club which is now considered as one of the top clubs in the country,” said Araneta.

“The wonderful tributes are proof of Rudy’s amazing impact in the Philippine football community. He will be missed.”